Summary

Researchers studying architecture in the southwest Cibola region have generally focused on Pueblo II to Pueblo IV aggregated above-ground masonry pueblos. Although these structures provide abundant information about past lifeways, little research has been conducted on pit structure architecture in this region. As such, there is much to be learned from earlier structures dating to the Basketmaker and early Pueblo periods in the southwest Cibola. By characterizing early architectural practice in the southwest Cibola region, as well as architectural practice on the periphery of this culture area, a greater understanding of settlement, mobility patterns, migration, and identity among early Pueblo residents becomes available. Utilizing the communities of practice approach, this paper characterizes architectural practice in the region and discusses how changes in architectural style over time may provide another avenue for understanding past lifeways in the southwest Cibola region.